Usually when we think about the fellowship we enjoy or look for from a church we tend to think of picnics, of weddings, of ice cream socials and of other peaceful activities. In the mind of Bobby McDaniel other concepts of the human endeavor need to be taught and shared as part of the definition of fellowship. Years ago he started his own ministry at Hillview Heights Church using the principles of the martial arts to teach and reach people.

In the basement of the recreation center of his church every Wednesday night, and now Thursday nights as well, he teaches self discipline, self control, self defense, and self confidence to anyone who wanders into his arena. He charges no fee. He makes no judgment as to who can participate – all are welcomed.

He uses Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) to demonstrate to his students that the principles of the martial arts can be applied to conduct oneself in a good and just manner outside of the arena into everyday life.

MMA is one of fastest growing sports in the United States. A branch of MMA is often referred to as “grappling” – which are the techniques, maneuvers, and counter maneuvers that are applied to escape a dangerous position – is what in practicality Bobby’s students practice. Grappling is a general term that used to describe several disciplines or styles practiced throughout the world. Grappling is practiced as a sport. It is a form of self defense, but does not include striking or the use of weapons though grappling disciplines do teach defensive tactics against strikes and the use of weapons. By utilizing the lessons of mixed martial arts Bobby McDaniel believes it will open their minds to the other possibilities of self fulfillment and faith.

After watching just one Wednesday night session, which was made up of mostly young men, I was impressed by the calm and cooperative atmosphere that fills the room that the MMA ministry uses. There is nothing spoken in the room but words of encouragement and camaraderie. There is no aggression. There is no winner. There is no competitive venom in the words spoken amongst the men in this room.

In the mixture of sounds coming from Bobby’s students, I listened to the normal noises of athletes training. There was  terminology like ‘hooks’, ‘locks’, ‘side guard’, ‘tap out’, “lock it in’ and ‘crank it’. My ears caught something else I hadn’t expected…laughter. I heard them all laugh frequently. It wasn’t at someone’s folly; it was as a collective group of human beings sharing a moment. There was always positive reinforcement from Bobby and from the other participants. Even if a newly taught technique wasn’t right there was always patience.

Bobby himself holds multiple titles in various fields of the Martial Arts and has competed since he was 7 years old, giving him  over 30 years of experience to offer to his students.

Before the session started I had asked Bobby how he had gotten the MMA ministry started. He chuckled a little and then told the story. He had wanted for a long time to start such a ministry. One day cleaning out a barn he found two wrestling mats and he asked his minister at Hillview Heights if he could go ahead with his idea of the MMA ministry. He admitted that he thought he’d come up with a unique idea but once he did some research Bobby found it wasn’t so original. I asked if he felt he was making a difference or if the program was successful. The light in his eyes and the broad smile answered my question before his words.

Bobby McDaniel has been so successful that he recently added a night to his MMA sessions just for students under 14 on Thursday nights. Waiting for the Wednesday night session to start, I witnessed several children come up and ask Bobby about what they would learn. Their eagerness was a testimony to Bobby McDaniel’s ability to reach people.

Taking it all to the next step Bobby McDaniel worked to get this year’s Tournament of Champions to be held at Hillview Heights Church. The Tournament of Champions to be held on March 13th  this year is an annual event hosted by Marty Eubanks and his World Champion Karate Academy. This year sees a grappling event as part of the tournament. No doubt Bobby’s students will make a great showing at the tournament.

Tournament of Champions Martial Arts Competition March 13, 2010 @ Hillvue Heights Rec Center 3219 Nashville Road

For more information: 270-202-7637 or  270-783-0089, www.EubanksKarate.com

Registration begins at 7:30am.  Fees are $45.00 for entry plus an additional $5 per division.  Safety equipment is required. Admission for spectators is $8 (Children under 4 free).

About the author: Franne J. has lived in 5 major cities and 7 states, but has always loved this area and considered Bowling Green home. She’s been a part of and writing about the local art and music scene, off and on, since the mid-90’s. She recently met the love of her life, a ship’s captain, who has encouraged her to write again. Find her on Facebook.